Jewish Heritage Fortnight

At Queen Mary Students' Union, we celebrate the rich diversity of our student body throughout the year. Each month brings a new reason to celebrate our students' unique backgrounds and contributions. This January, following the winter exams, we are excited to host Jewish Heritage Fortnight—a special observance dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the vibrant Jewish community at QMSU.

What is Jewish Heritage Fortnight?

Jewish Heritage is recognized worldwide at different times of the year. For instance, May is Jewish Heritage Month in America, celebrating the significant contributions of the American Jewish community. Here at QMSU, from 27 January to 10 February, our student representatives and staff have curated a series of events and promotions across our campuses. Our offerings range from a Tour of Jewish East End, a Holocaust Memorial events, to opportunities to try and learn about Jewish foods!

How can you be involved?

Joining in our Jewish Heritage Fortnight celebrations is easy! Visit our website to discover a full listing of events and details on how to attend. Most events are free, and you can easily book your spot online. Participating in Jewish Heritage Fortnight is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, engage with diverse perspectives, and deepen your understanding of Jewish culture and history, Jewish Heritage Fortnight offers something for everyone at QMSU.

Facts and Figures

Jewish people only make up roughly 0.2% of the world's population and only
There are between 14.5 to 17.4 million Jews in the world today
45% of all Jewish people live in Israel, and another 39% in the United States
Judaism is a religion, culture, and ethnic group
Judaism is the oldest monotheistic religion
In 2019, hate crimes against Jews constituted 62% of all hate crimes based on religion in the United States

Testimony of a Holocaust Survivor

As part of Antisemitism Awareness Month 2020 and to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day, last year the Students' Union, QMUL and QM Jewish and Israel society hosted guest speaker, Harry Olmer BEM.

You can now watch Harry’s Holocaust testimony on how he survived four forced labour camps over three torturous years, plus time in Buchenwald concentration camp in Germany and the Terezin Ghetto, before being liberated by the Red Army in May 1945.

We were delighted that Harry agreed to share his story with us and thank him for attending the event. The testimony was followed by a Q&A with students and staff.

Watch here

Culture list

Israeli and Jewish Culture: A Brief List

This brief list barely scratches the surface of the rich and diverse tapestry of Jewish and Israeli culture. Each element reflects a unique blend of history, tradition, and contemporary influences that have shaped these vibrant communities.

Movies

Schindler's List (1993): Directed by Steven Spielberg, this powerful film tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during the Holocaust.

People

Golda Meir: The fourth Prime Minister of Israel and one of the world's first women to hold such a position.
Albert Einstein: Renowned theoretical physicist, synonymous with genius, and a vocal advocate for Zionism.

Literature

The Diary of Anne Frank (1947):The poignant and powerful diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II.

Traditions

Shabbat: The Jewish Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, marked by rituals, prayers, and a festive meal.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah: Coming-of-age ceremonies for Jewish boys (Bar Mitzvah) and girls (Bat Mitzvah).
Hanukkah: Festival of lights, commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

Food

Hummus: A versatile and popular Middle Eastern dish made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and various spices.
Falafel: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in pita bread.
Matzo Ball Soup: A traditional Jewish soup featuring matzo balls (dumplings) in a clear broth, often served during Passover.
Challah: A braided egg bread traditionally enjoyed on Jewish holidays and Shabbat (Sabbath).